The new Chelsea boss had said he was free to go, save any last minute changes of plan. A disappointed Frank accused him of being a "liar", adding, "I can't work with a coach who lies to me from Day 1." But Chelsea chief Keynon says, "Lampard's staying".
MILAN, 10 July 2008 - Frank Lampard is never one to shirk his responsibilities, both on pitch and off. He takes penalties like a true blue and will write off a new manager, even on the first day if need be. His relationship with Felipe Scolari was an non-starter from Day 1: Lampard, the top scoring midfielder, feels betrayed and wants to call it a day at Chelsea. Inter is now the only option he will consider. Inter and Mourinho, that is, and the feeling's mutual. Conflicting versions of the saga are doing the rounds, with Lampard's version poles apart from Scolari's. This means Roman Abramovich and Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon stand even less of a chance of persuading Lampard to stay in London.
PRESS CONFERENCE - At Tuesday's conference in London, everything seemed hunky dory. Scolari announced, "I spoke to Lampard on Monday to tell him how much I admire him as a man and a player. I told him I want him here at Chelsea and he said that he would like to stay for many years. We just have a few small details to sort out." Lampard's agent, Steve Kutner, on the other hand, was a little less less hearts and flowers in his statement: "Chelsea has put Frank in a very awkward position. He told Scolari he would like to end his career at Chelsea, but with the contract they've offered him, that would be impossible." Something is obviously amiss, and in all probability their talk didn't go quite like Big Phil's version of events.
BEHIND THE SCENES - What really happened? Lampard and Scolari talked a week ago before the new manager was signed on at Stamford Bridge. The midfielder asked to be released to go to Inter, bringing, in his mind, an end to his time at Chelsea. Scolari's reply went something like this: "Frank, I need you here, I want you to stay but I can't keep you here. If we sign Deco then you'll be free to go." With Deco then onboard to play for Chelsea, Lampard felt he was out of the woods. He speaks regularly with José Mourinho who is waiting to make him part of Inter's new midfield line-up. Scolari on the other hand, had a sudden change of tack.
U-TURN - Things started to go seriously wrong on Monday, 24 hours before the press conference. Scolari put Lampard in the picture: "you're staying at Chelsea". Incensed, the Blues captain hurled accusations at the Portuguese manager, calling him a "liar" and claiming, "There's no way I can stay at Chelsea. I can't work with a coach who lies to me from day 1. It's over." Worse was still to come when Lampard listened in disbelief to what Scolari had to say at Cobham. What now?
INTER STEP FORWARD - Lampard is now much closer to Inter, so much so that yesterday, Beppe Baresi, Mourinho's number 2, claimed, "Despite Chelsea's initial rejection of our first bid, I think negotiations are still on." It's highly unlikely Chelsea would be able to play with someone who had argued with the manager, who doesn't want to stay, and who would be up for free transfer within a year. At the same time, chances are Kenyon also wants to cash in on Mourinho and Moratti's burning desire for a star who, even at the age of 30, could still take the club to a new dimension.
STAND-OFF - You have to take all this into consideration to interpret the latest from Keynon, posted on the club's website yesterday: "The situation is ongoing. We have always maintained that we want Frank to stay and an offer was made to that effect. That offer is still on the table. Frank is under contract and he still has one year to run on that. We'd like to hope that we can reach an agreement but if we can't, we intend to keep him to see out the terms of his contract. If we receive a new bid, we will reject it".
Text Source: By Fabio Licari and Luca Taidelli, Gazzetta.it(http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/07_Luglio/10/Lampard.shtml)
Text Source: Gazzetta.it
Showing posts with label italian Soccer Language. Show all posts
Showing posts with label italian Soccer Language. Show all posts
Friday, July 11, 2008
Monday, July 7, 2008
Inter Fax Chelsea Final Efforts For Lampard
Negotiations to take the Blues midfielder to Inter are at a turning point: a trip to London is imminent. And this week the offer for Roma's Mancini will go up to 12 million euros.
MILAN, 7 July 2008 - Yesterday Inter sent a fax to Chelsea requesting a meeting to negotiate the purchase of Frank Lampard. It was to be expected, but this is a decisive step since this is the first official move in the long talks focused on the 30 year old English midfielder. In fact up until yesterday Inter's Branca and Oriali have been seeking agreement with the player's agent, Steve Kutner, while Mourinho has been talking to Lampard himself, after three seasons as his manager in London. Today Branca is expected in the English capital.
TURNAROUND - It's no surprise that Inter made their move over the weekend: Chelsea's pre-season training begins today. Inter want to assist Lampard in what will be a difficult stage for him: explaining to the club that after seven years in which he has both given and received a great deal, he wants to join Mourinho in Milan. It's one thing to turn down the generous contract renewal offer of €8.5 million a season (his current deal expires in 2009), it's another matter to explain to the Blues' directors that today they may have to cash in on a player who otherwise could leave for nothing next year. Inter are ready to pay €10 million to the club, though the bulk of the cost will be the player's wages: a four year deal has already been agreed for €7.5 million (net) per season. Ultimately, the deal is on, despite the last-ditch efforts by Deco. Denying that his arrival will push Lampard towards Milan, the Portuguese player yesterday claimed: "I think I can be compatible with Lampard on the pitch. It will be for Scolari to decide, but I've watched a lot of Chelsea games on TV and together Frank and I can create a lot of danger for other teams." But perhaps for Chelsea themselves too, since they need to fit in Ballack, and a tackling midfielder wouldn't hurt...
MANCINI DEAL CLOSE - This week Inter could pull off a double transfer coup. By Tuesday it is expected that there will be a meeting with Roma for Mancini, whose agent Gilmar Veloz is expected in Italy by the weekend. On Friday, Roma reiterated that they are only interested in a cash deal but lowered their demands from 15 to 13 million euros. Inter offered 10 and could reach 12, so an agreement is not far off. Not least since without this cash, the giallorossi can't operate on the transfer market.
QUARESMA UNLIKELY - The prospect of Ricardo Quaresma seems ever less likely. As if the difference between demand (€30 million plus Pelè) and offer (€20 million) weren't enough, yesterday Porto President Pinto da Costa denied the story, despite the meeting which took place, under pressure from fans, saying that "I haven't received any official offer for Quaresma. Nor has he asked to leave."
TIME TO SELL - Branca and Oriali must also work on outgoing players. Costs must be recouped, but the squad must also be reduced to the 24 players requested by Mourinho. With Lampard, Mancini and Obinna (agreement with Chievo is expected this week) added there would be 28. Burdisso (who Inter have banned from taking part in the Olimpics), Stankovic and one of Crespo or Suazo may leave. But there are rumours that Adriano could go to Chelsea in exchange for Drogba. Another of Mourinho's favourites.
Text Source: By LUCA TAIDELLI, Gazzetta.it(http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/07_Luglio/07/Lampard.shtml)
MILAN, 7 July 2008 - Yesterday Inter sent a fax to Chelsea requesting a meeting to negotiate the purchase of Frank Lampard. It was to be expected, but this is a decisive step since this is the first official move in the long talks focused on the 30 year old English midfielder. In fact up until yesterday Inter's Branca and Oriali have been seeking agreement with the player's agent, Steve Kutner, while Mourinho has been talking to Lampard himself, after three seasons as his manager in London. Today Branca is expected in the English capital.
TURNAROUND - It's no surprise that Inter made their move over the weekend: Chelsea's pre-season training begins today. Inter want to assist Lampard in what will be a difficult stage for him: explaining to the club that after seven years in which he has both given and received a great deal, he wants to join Mourinho in Milan. It's one thing to turn down the generous contract renewal offer of €8.5 million a season (his current deal expires in 2009), it's another matter to explain to the Blues' directors that today they may have to cash in on a player who otherwise could leave for nothing next year. Inter are ready to pay €10 million to the club, though the bulk of the cost will be the player's wages: a four year deal has already been agreed for €7.5 million (net) per season. Ultimately, the deal is on, despite the last-ditch efforts by Deco. Denying that his arrival will push Lampard towards Milan, the Portuguese player yesterday claimed: "I think I can be compatible with Lampard on the pitch. It will be for Scolari to decide, but I've watched a lot of Chelsea games on TV and together Frank and I can create a lot of danger for other teams." But perhaps for Chelsea themselves too, since they need to fit in Ballack, and a tackling midfielder wouldn't hurt...
MANCINI DEAL CLOSE - This week Inter could pull off a double transfer coup. By Tuesday it is expected that there will be a meeting with Roma for Mancini, whose agent Gilmar Veloz is expected in Italy by the weekend. On Friday, Roma reiterated that they are only interested in a cash deal but lowered their demands from 15 to 13 million euros. Inter offered 10 and could reach 12, so an agreement is not far off. Not least since without this cash, the giallorossi can't operate on the transfer market.
QUARESMA UNLIKELY - The prospect of Ricardo Quaresma seems ever less likely. As if the difference between demand (€30 million plus Pelè) and offer (€20 million) weren't enough, yesterday Porto President Pinto da Costa denied the story, despite the meeting which took place, under pressure from fans, saying that "I haven't received any official offer for Quaresma. Nor has he asked to leave."
TIME TO SELL - Branca and Oriali must also work on outgoing players. Costs must be recouped, but the squad must also be reduced to the 24 players requested by Mourinho. With Lampard, Mancini and Obinna (agreement with Chievo is expected this week) added there would be 28. Burdisso (who Inter have banned from taking part in the Olimpics), Stankovic and one of Crespo or Suazo may leave. But there are rumours that Adriano could go to Chelsea in exchange for Drogba. Another of Mourinho's favourites.
Text Source: By LUCA TAIDELLI, Gazzetta.it(http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/Primo_Piano/2008/07_Luglio/07/Lampard.shtml)
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Lippi Takes Over as Italy Coach Again
ROME (AP)—Marcello Lippi gave up a life of leisure to return as Italy’s national team coach, less than two years after guiding the Azzurri to their fourth World Cup title.
“Naturally, I’m very happy to pick up where I left off. But picking up where I left off also means that the Euros didn’t go so great, or I would still be on the beach in Viareggio,” the well-tanned Lippi said at a news conference Tuesday, referring to his hometown on the Tuscan seaside.
Lippi was rehired last week when Roberto Donadoni’s contract was terminated after Italy lost to eventual champion Spain on penalty kicks in the European Championship quarterfinals last month.
“We’re still the World Cup champions. We’ve got the team that won the Club World Cup (AC Milan). We have a top under-23 squad. And we are one of the favorites for the Olympics,” Lippi added. “The world of Italian football should hold its head high.”
Lippi’s first task it to qualify Italy for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The Azzurri are grouped with Bulgaria, Cyprus, Georgia, Ireland and Montenegro, with the group winner advancing and the second-place team most likely going to a playoff.
“These last two years were not completely lost,” Lippi said. “A large number of players from the World Cup stayed in the group, and Donadoni inserted some key new players.”
Italy looked old, slow and overly defensive, and no Italian forward scored at the Euros.
“We’ve got to show a bit of daring in certain situations, like in the semifinal with Germany, when I put four forwards on,” Lippi said, recalling the 2-0 extra-time win in the World Cup semifinals. “We’re going to try and show some aggressive football right away.”
Lippi resigned immediately after leading Italy to its fourth World Cup title in Berlin, largely because he was uncomfortable that he and his son had been linked to the Italian match-fixing scandal.
“I would never have left if it wasn’t in the middle of that situation,” Lippi said. “It was very tough to see my name and family members linked to those things. At that time, it wasn’t possible to continue. Now the situation is different, the discussion is open and we’ve gotten through that period.”
Lippi’s first game back in charge will be an exhibition against Austria on Aug. 20 at Nice, France.
Text Source: By ANDREW DAMPF, AP Sports Writer (http://sports.yahoo.com/) - http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news;_ylt=AlbvRfcxlcqpIkbEUtQ1S3smw7YF?slug=ap-italy-lippi&prov=ap&type=lgns
“Naturally, I’m very happy to pick up where I left off. But picking up where I left off also means that the Euros didn’t go so great, or I would still be on the beach in Viareggio,” the well-tanned Lippi said at a news conference Tuesday, referring to his hometown on the Tuscan seaside.
Lippi was rehired last week when Roberto Donadoni’s contract was terminated after Italy lost to eventual champion Spain on penalty kicks in the European Championship quarterfinals last month.
“We’re still the World Cup champions. We’ve got the team that won the Club World Cup (AC Milan). We have a top under-23 squad. And we are one of the favorites for the Olympics,” Lippi added. “The world of Italian football should hold its head high.”
Lippi’s first task it to qualify Italy for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The Azzurri are grouped with Bulgaria, Cyprus, Georgia, Ireland and Montenegro, with the group winner advancing and the second-place team most likely going to a playoff.
“These last two years were not completely lost,” Lippi said. “A large number of players from the World Cup stayed in the group, and Donadoni inserted some key new players.”
Italy looked old, slow and overly defensive, and no Italian forward scored at the Euros.
“We’ve got to show a bit of daring in certain situations, like in the semifinal with Germany, when I put four forwards on,” Lippi said, recalling the 2-0 extra-time win in the World Cup semifinals. “We’re going to try and show some aggressive football right away.”
Lippi resigned immediately after leading Italy to its fourth World Cup title in Berlin, largely because he was uncomfortable that he and his son had been linked to the Italian match-fixing scandal.
“I would never have left if it wasn’t in the middle of that situation,” Lippi said. “It was very tough to see my name and family members linked to those things. At that time, it wasn’t possible to continue. Now the situation is different, the discussion is open and we’ve gotten through that period.”
Lippi’s first game back in charge will be an exhibition against Austria on Aug. 20 at Nice, France.
Text Source: By ANDREW DAMPF, AP Sports Writer (http://sports.yahoo.com/) - http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news;_ylt=AlbvRfcxlcqpIkbEUtQ1S3smw7YF?slug=ap-italy-lippi&prov=ap&type=lgns
Monday, June 23, 2008
Italy, What a Shame! Spain Through on Penalties
VIENNA (Austria), 22 June 2008 - The adventure is over. Spain beat Italy 4-2 in the penalty shootout and send them packing. The magic of Berlin disappears on a hot Vienna night. After a goalless 120', De Rossi and Di Natale miss their penalties, while Buffon manages to stop Guiza's shot. It's time to turn the page; the world champions are out of this championship.
CONFIRMATIONS - Donadoni starts with the same system he used in their match against France in Zurich. But the 4-3-1-2 sees some forced changes in midfield, due to the absence of Pirlo and Gattuso. The new midfield consists of Roma player Aquilani, from kick-off, on the right, De Rossi in the middle and Ambrosini on the left. And Donadoni keeps his faith in attacking midfielder Perrotta, who plays behind Toni and Cassano. Aragones also makes few changes: 4-4-2, with the usual 4-player midfield with Iniesta on the right and Senna just behind the attacking line.
CONFIRMATIONS - Donadoni starts with the same system he used in their match against France in Zurich. But the 4-3-1-2 sees some forced changes in midfield, due to the absence of Pirlo and Gattuso. The new midfield consists of Roma player Aquilani, from kick-off, on the right, De Rossi in the middle and Ambrosini on the left. And Donadoni keeps his faith in attacking midfielder Perrotta, who plays behind Toni and Cassano. Aragones also makes few changes: 4-4-2, with the usual 4-player midfield with Iniesta on the right and Senna just behind the attacking line.
SPAIN ON A ROLL - The Italians start in attacking mode with good pressing but Spain immediately puts on the brake. The Spanish play wide and at low speed, but they seem to be more in control of the game. On 9' Silva moves to the centre, but his left-footed shot is deflected and then blocked by Buffon. Nothing special, but it's proof that Spain is controlling play. Sampdoria player Cassano is Italy's most inspired player, but although he is a very quick dribbler there is no support for him, and finds himself double marked.
SUFFERINGS - In the 18th minute there's Torres; he enters the box from the left and receives the ball from Iniesta but his shot on goal is too high. This should send a signal to Italy. On that side the Spanish are roaming free: Aquilani cannot bear the weight and he is bogged down by his responsibility. Then, on 19' it's Italy's turn. Ambrosini's cross from the left finds Perrotta but his header lacks power; no problem for Casillas. In the 23rd minute it's again Ambrosini who steps on the accelerator, but he does not pass the ball immediately to Toni, who is clearly lagging behind. Spain come close to scoring with Villa on 25': his free kick finds his way through a group of legs but Buffon catches it on the ground.
CASSANO HAS A GO - Italy seem to come out of their cage, but nobody is taking the lead and Perrotta is having difficulties. Spain is doing better and in the 32nd minute Silva challenges Buffon once again. But it is Cassano who produces some magic four minutes later after having received the ball from Ambrosini; his cross for Toni is perfect, but the striker does not jump: a missed opportunity. The Spanish reaction is fearsome: in the 38th minute Silva hits the bar on Buffon's right from just outside the box. Spain are the better side and Italy is struggling in midfield where De Rossi and Ambrosini have to work extra hard, which reduces the number attacks via Zambrotta and Grosso on the flanks.
CHIELLINI MAGIC - Silva immediately puts his mark on the game in the second half, but Chiellini refuses to budge and there is no way through. The young Juventus players is doing overtime but he needs to make himself heard because his team is not filtering. In the 10th minute Torres muscles Panucci off the ball but his cross is cut out by Chiellini. Italy look ready to surrender. Then on 13' Camoranesi comes in for Perrotta. And the team seriously needs him. In the 16th minute he comes close to scoring but the outstanding Casillas intervenes with his left foot. With Fabregas and Cazorla (Xavi and Iniesta out) Spain has more possession of the ball, but Italy hang in there
MORE TEAM PLAY - Camoranesi has put things in order and restored balance. On 29' Di Natale replaces Cassano, but Spain is in command again. On 35' Buffon punches clear Senna's fierce freekick. And one minute later Italy are saved by the bar when Buffon spills a shot by the same player. Italy try again with Toni, who misses by a few centimetres. And in the 38th minute Toni robs Grosso of a big scoring opportunity when he receives a cross by Di Natale. Torres gets off and Guiza comes on and the final minutes are frenzied. Zambrotta saves Italy by blocking Villa in the 93rd minute.
THRILLS - Extra time is immediately exciting, because in the third minute Villa flashes a shot wide. But two minutes later Italy come close to scoring on two occasions: first Marchena intercepts a pass to Toni then a header by Di Natale's is tipped over. And Italy is kicking itself because they have the best chances. Both teams are now purely relying on instinct and passion. Del Piero comes on for Aquilani on 108'. The Spanish also keep trying; Buffon saves a Villa shot: Italy are struggling hard and in the 120th minute Cazorla drags a shot wide and it's penalty time. And this time Spain do not fail.
Text Source: Gazzetta.it (http://english.gazzetta.it/More_sports/Primo_Piano/2008/06_Giugno/22/ita-spa.shtml)
Image Source: Gazzetta.it
SUFFERINGS - In the 18th minute there's Torres; he enters the box from the left and receives the ball from Iniesta but his shot on goal is too high. This should send a signal to Italy. On that side the Spanish are roaming free: Aquilani cannot bear the weight and he is bogged down by his responsibility. Then, on 19' it's Italy's turn. Ambrosini's cross from the left finds Perrotta but his header lacks power; no problem for Casillas. In the 23rd minute it's again Ambrosini who steps on the accelerator, but he does not pass the ball immediately to Toni, who is clearly lagging behind. Spain come close to scoring with Villa on 25': his free kick finds his way through a group of legs but Buffon catches it on the ground.
CASSANO HAS A GO - Italy seem to come out of their cage, but nobody is taking the lead and Perrotta is having difficulties. Spain is doing better and in the 32nd minute Silva challenges Buffon once again. But it is Cassano who produces some magic four minutes later after having received the ball from Ambrosini; his cross for Toni is perfect, but the striker does not jump: a missed opportunity. The Spanish reaction is fearsome: in the 38th minute Silva hits the bar on Buffon's right from just outside the box. Spain are the better side and Italy is struggling in midfield where De Rossi and Ambrosini have to work extra hard, which reduces the number attacks via Zambrotta and Grosso on the flanks.
CHIELLINI MAGIC - Silva immediately puts his mark on the game in the second half, but Chiellini refuses to budge and there is no way through. The young Juventus players is doing overtime but he needs to make himself heard because his team is not filtering. In the 10th minute Torres muscles Panucci off the ball but his cross is cut out by Chiellini. Italy look ready to surrender. Then on 13' Camoranesi comes in for Perrotta. And the team seriously needs him. In the 16th minute he comes close to scoring but the outstanding Casillas intervenes with his left foot. With Fabregas and Cazorla (Xavi and Iniesta out) Spain has more possession of the ball, but Italy hang in there
MORE TEAM PLAY - Camoranesi has put things in order and restored balance. On 29' Di Natale replaces Cassano, but Spain is in command again. On 35' Buffon punches clear Senna's fierce freekick. And one minute later Italy are saved by the bar when Buffon spills a shot by the same player. Italy try again with Toni, who misses by a few centimetres. And in the 38th minute Toni robs Grosso of a big scoring opportunity when he receives a cross by Di Natale. Torres gets off and Guiza comes on and the final minutes are frenzied. Zambrotta saves Italy by blocking Villa in the 93rd minute.
THRILLS - Extra time is immediately exciting, because in the third minute Villa flashes a shot wide. But two minutes later Italy come close to scoring on two occasions: first Marchena intercepts a pass to Toni then a header by Di Natale's is tipped over. And Italy is kicking itself because they have the best chances. Both teams are now purely relying on instinct and passion. Del Piero comes on for Aquilani on 108'. The Spanish also keep trying; Buffon saves a Villa shot: Italy are struggling hard and in the 120th minute Cazorla drags a shot wide and it's penalty time. And this time Spain do not fail.
Text Source: Gazzetta.it (http://english.gazzetta.it/More_sports/Primo_Piano/2008/06_Giugno/22/ita-spa.shtml)
Image Source: Gazzetta.it
Monday, June 16, 2008
Italy 90’ of Emotion and Bad Luck: All Depends on Tuesday
The score was 1-1 in Zurich. A good Italy, that is not able to beat Romania despite dominating the field. Lobont, the Romanian goalkeeper, was able to save just about everything and in the final minutes Buffon was able to black a penalty kick by Mutu after a foul that only the referee saw, the same referee that in the first half had annulled a regular goal to Luca Toni.
Donadoni chnaged the team with respect to the one that went on the field in Bern. The scheme is 4-2-3-1. Five new players with Grosso, Chiellini, De Rossi, Del PIero and Perrotta. Del Piero captain. Even Piturca lined up his team with three players behind Mutu and Nicolae, but the three are Petre, Codrea and Chivu who are defenders for the most part. Chivu (Inter) and Mutu (Fiorentina) are the “Italian” players for Romania, along with the former “Italians” Lobont (Fiorentina) and Contra (Milan), with the Lazio player, Radu, on the bench.
The two teams start out studying themselves: the place at stake is very high. On 9’, Italy has the first occasion: Camoranesi for Del Piero, the ball is blocked, cross by Perrotta for Del Piero who tries to head the ball, but the ball is deviated by the defender even tough the referee does not give the corner to Italy. Romania tries on 15’ with Mutu, but Buffon is ready.
Italy starts off again and Toni has a good chance but his shot is high. The Azzurri have chances with Grosso down the left touch and Buffon is still ready after a free kick by Tamas from 30 meters off.
Romania almost goes ahead on 19’: free kick by Chivu, ball deviated by the back of Panucci and hits the goalpost, then Zambrotta sends the ball off. The Romanians lose Radoi, injured, and Dica goes in as substitute. Italy again with Grosso for Del Piero whose header goes off to the side on 27’. Italy unstoppable: Toni tries to head the ball, but the net defended by Lobont is untouchable. Romania tries with a shot from the distance by Rat that goes off to the side.
The Azzurri play better, but are not able to score. Italy again on 39’ with Zambrotta from the right, Toni crosses to Perrotta shoes shot is deviated into a corner kick.
Toni heads the ball and Lobont saves, but the ball rebounds and Italy tries again but Lobont sends the ball off. The Azzurri deserve to be ahead. Toni scores, on a cross by Zambrotta, but the referee annulls for an offsides that was not there. Italy is just not lucky.
The first half ends 0-0. The second half begins with Italy pushing ahead, the Romanians, however, play with ten players behind the line. Mutu tries on 9’, but Buffon saves. But Buffon can do nothing on 10’ with Zambrotta fails a back pass with his head, and Mutu gets the ball. For the Fiorentina player the goal is a piece of cake to score. It is a curse, but Italy continues: corner kick by Pirlo, header by Chiellini and Panucci from two meters off, scores, a goal that took four years to score.
Cassano in for Perrotta and on 18’, Cassano invents for Del Piero who sends an assist for Toni who is not able to score. Romania has a chance on 25’ with Nicolae, but Italy saves. Cassano again for Toni, cross for De Rossi, header and miracle by Lobont. Lobont saves again on a header by Toni. Only Italy on the field. But then there is the masterpiece by the referee Henning who on 26’ grants a penalty kick for contact between Panucci and Nicolae, a foul that only the referee saw. But justice does exist and has the shape of Gigi Buffon who blocks the penalty kick by Mutu. The score remains 1-1. On 42’, Italy again but Toni is not able to score after slipping on the cross from Cassano. The Azzurri try in every way possible, but the match remains 1-1. Now we have to wait until Tuesday to see if Italy will continue.
ITALY (4-2-3-1): Buffon; Zambrotta, Panucci, Chiellini, Grosso; Pirlo, De Rossi; Camoranesi (40’ st Ambrosini), Del Piero (32’ st Quagliarella), Perrotta (12’ st Cassano); Toni. Substitutes: Amelia, De Sanctis, Barzagli, Gamberini, Materazzi, Gattuso, Aquilani, Di Natale, Borriello. Head coach: Donadoni
ROMANIA (4-1-3-2):Lobont; Contra, Tamas, Goian, Rat; Radoi (25’ pt Dica); Petre (14’ st Nicolita), Codrea, Chivu; Mutu (43’ st Cocis), D. Nuculae. Substitutes: Popa, Stancioiu, Marica, Sapunaru, Ghionea, Moti, M. Niculae, Cristea, Radu. Head coach: Piturca
Referee: Henning Ovrebo (Nor)
Scorers: 9’ st Mutu (R), 11’ st Panucci (I)
Note: yellow-carded Mutu, Chivu, Pirlo, Goian, De Rossi. Extra-time: 3’ pt, 3’ st. Spectators 30,858
The two teams start out studying themselves: the place at stake is very high. On 9’, Italy has the first occasion: Camoranesi for Del Piero, the ball is blocked, cross by Perrotta for Del Piero who tries to head the ball, but the ball is deviated by the defender even tough the referee does not give the corner to Italy. Romania tries on 15’ with Mutu, but Buffon is ready.
Italy starts off again and Toni has a good chance but his shot is high. The Azzurri have chances with Grosso down the left touch and Buffon is still ready after a free kick by Tamas from 30 meters off.
Romania almost goes ahead on 19’: free kick by Chivu, ball deviated by the back of Panucci and hits the goalpost, then Zambrotta sends the ball off. The Romanians lose Radoi, injured, and Dica goes in as substitute. Italy again with Grosso for Del Piero whose header goes off to the side on 27’. Italy unstoppable: Toni tries to head the ball, but the net defended by Lobont is untouchable. Romania tries with a shot from the distance by Rat that goes off to the side.
The Azzurri play better, but are not able to score. Italy again on 39’ with Zambrotta from the right, Toni crosses to Perrotta shoes shot is deviated into a corner kick.
Toni heads the ball and Lobont saves, but the ball rebounds and Italy tries again but Lobont sends the ball off. The Azzurri deserve to be ahead. Toni scores, on a cross by Zambrotta, but the referee annulls for an offsides that was not there. Italy is just not lucky.
The first half ends 0-0. The second half begins with Italy pushing ahead, the Romanians, however, play with ten players behind the line. Mutu tries on 9’, but Buffon saves. But Buffon can do nothing on 10’ with Zambrotta fails a back pass with his head, and Mutu gets the ball. For the Fiorentina player the goal is a piece of cake to score. It is a curse, but Italy continues: corner kick by Pirlo, header by Chiellini and Panucci from two meters off, scores, a goal that took four years to score.
Cassano in for Perrotta and on 18’, Cassano invents for Del Piero who sends an assist for Toni who is not able to score. Romania has a chance on 25’ with Nicolae, but Italy saves. Cassano again for Toni, cross for De Rossi, header and miracle by Lobont. Lobont saves again on a header by Toni. Only Italy on the field. But then there is the masterpiece by the referee Henning who on 26’ grants a penalty kick for contact between Panucci and Nicolae, a foul that only the referee saw. But justice does exist and has the shape of Gigi Buffon who blocks the penalty kick by Mutu. The score remains 1-1. On 42’, Italy again but Toni is not able to score after slipping on the cross from Cassano. The Azzurri try in every way possible, but the match remains 1-1. Now we have to wait until Tuesday to see if Italy will continue.
ITALY (4-2-3-1): Buffon; Zambrotta, Panucci, Chiellini, Grosso; Pirlo, De Rossi; Camoranesi (40’ st Ambrosini), Del Piero (32’ st Quagliarella), Perrotta (12’ st Cassano); Toni. Substitutes: Amelia, De Sanctis, Barzagli, Gamberini, Materazzi, Gattuso, Aquilani, Di Natale, Borriello. Head coach: Donadoni
ROMANIA (4-1-3-2):Lobont; Contra, Tamas, Goian, Rat; Radoi (25’ pt Dica); Petre (14’ st Nicolita), Codrea, Chivu; Mutu (43’ st Cocis), D. Nuculae. Substitutes: Popa, Stancioiu, Marica, Sapunaru, Ghionea, Moti, M. Niculae, Cristea, Radu. Head coach: Piturca
Referee: Henning Ovrebo (Nor)
Scorers: 9’ st Mutu (R), 11’ st Panucci (I)
Note: yellow-carded Mutu, Chivu, Pirlo, Goian, De Rossi. Extra-time: 3’ pt, 3’ st. Spectators 30,858
Text Source: FGCI (Italian Soccer Federation) http://www.figc.it/en/204/19005/2008/06/News.shtml
Image Source: Associated Press
Image Source: Associated Press
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Registration For the Two Week Italian Soccer School Program Still Open
Football players age 12 to 17 can still register for the Two Week Italian Soccer-Language Program to be conducted on Jekyll Island, GA from June 29th to July 14th, 2008. Camp Directors, Antonio Saviano and Dek Smith said.
According to Dek Smith, Georgia Coast FA Director who is coordination the camp said “the instructors, who come directly from Italy will provide proven teaching methods to our players around the clock to enhance their Italian Soccer Experience. Players will be exposed to the beautiful game and beautiful language every day, on the field, at the poolside, and at every opportunity”.
The Tuition for the full 16 days/15 nights is a total of $1895.00. Tuition not only includes full room and board, training, airport pick up and drop off but also the entry fee for two National 3 vs. 3 tournament on Jekyll Island.
Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio – Italian Soccer School Director said, “Players attending the camp will participate in two 3 vs. 3 tournaments, one the first weekend and one tournament for the final weekend of the camp. The 3 vs. 3 National Tournament is a qualifier for the 2008 Challenge Sports National Championships at Walt Disney World. I am sure they will have a great time!”
For additional details, email: info@soccerkix.com
According to Dek Smith, Georgia Coast FA Director who is coordination the camp said “the instructors, who come directly from Italy will provide proven teaching methods to our players around the clock to enhance their Italian Soccer Experience. Players will be exposed to the beautiful game and beautiful language every day, on the field, at the poolside, and at every opportunity”.
The Tuition for the full 16 days/15 nights is a total of $1895.00. Tuition not only includes full room and board, training, airport pick up and drop off but also the entry fee for two National 3 vs. 3 tournament on Jekyll Island.
Antonio Saviano, Scuola Calcio – Italian Soccer School Director said, “Players attending the camp will participate in two 3 vs. 3 tournaments, one the first weekend and one tournament for the final weekend of the camp. The 3 vs. 3 National Tournament is a qualifier for the 2008 Challenge Sports National Championships at Walt Disney World. I am sure they will have a great time!”
For additional details, email: info@soccerkix.com
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Kaka Set To Lead The Line
Ricky Kaka will play as a striker next season for AC Milan according to Adriano Galliani.
The Brazilian was moved into a more advanced role at the beginning of this season and although the 26-year-old was initially reluctant to shift position, the Rossoneri vice-president revealed that the club top scorer's move to bolster the attack would be made permanent.
He said: "We will be adopting a new tactic next year, Kakà will be our support striker for next season."
The European and World Footballer of the Year has scored 15 goals this season despite struggling with injury and his accuracy in front of goal has convinced the San Siro club as well as the player that his future lies in this direction.
Although such a move would increase competition for the remaining attacking place, Galliani revealed that main contenders Filippo Inzaghi and Alexandre Pato would provide the main goal threat.
He added: "I think this is an excellent solution but up front there can only be one striker playing in front of him. Inzaghi is doing very well at the moment so Pato will have to alternate with him."
Such a move would alter the strategy of the Milan giants in the transfer market this summer, with the addition of only one striker now the priority which could pave the way for the return of Marco Borriello after his magnificent season with Genoa.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The Brazilian was moved into a more advanced role at the beginning of this season and although the 26-year-old was initially reluctant to shift position, the Rossoneri vice-president revealed that the club top scorer's move to bolster the attack would be made permanent.
He said: "We will be adopting a new tactic next year, Kakà will be our support striker for next season."
The European and World Footballer of the Year has scored 15 goals this season despite struggling with injury and his accuracy in front of goal has convinced the San Siro club as well as the player that his future lies in this direction.
Although such a move would increase competition for the remaining attacking place, Galliani revealed that main contenders Filippo Inzaghi and Alexandre Pato would provide the main goal threat.
He added: "I think this is an excellent solution but up front there can only be one striker playing in front of him. Inzaghi is doing very well at the moment so Pato will have to alternate with him."
Such a move would alter the strategy of the Milan giants in the transfer market this summer, with the addition of only one striker now the priority which could pave the way for the return of Marco Borriello after his magnificent season with Genoa.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Berlusconi on Super League
Silvio Berlusconi has launched the first salvos on the road to a possible breakaway league in Italian and European football.
The 71-year-old was appearing on the Italian "Radio Radio" programme to outline his new proposals to keep Italian football at the forefront of the sporting world.
The Italy Prime Minister-elect said: "The top clubs from the big cities have to have their own championship because when you invest so much in a team it cannot be thought to go and play against a provincial side in a stadium that holds only around 20,000 fans and is half-empty anyway."
He added: "When two great teams play then the stadiums are packed and there is an incredible television audience. Then of course, only with top teams can we become main players in Europe again."
Berlusconi, who will stand down as AC Milan president after becoming Prime Minister for a third time, also proposed a separate league for teams with fewer spectators and went on to say that Italian clubs should take the English stadiums as a model and to build commercial centres around them.
Looking to the future he believes that people would be "in favour" of these proposals and that "licenses could be given" for them.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
The 71-year-old was appearing on the Italian "Radio Radio" programme to outline his new proposals to keep Italian football at the forefront of the sporting world.
The Italy Prime Minister-elect said: "The top clubs from the big cities have to have their own championship because when you invest so much in a team it cannot be thought to go and play against a provincial side in a stadium that holds only around 20,000 fans and is half-empty anyway."
He added: "When two great teams play then the stadiums are packed and there is an incredible television audience. Then of course, only with top teams can we become main players in Europe again."
Berlusconi, who will stand down as AC Milan president after becoming Prime Minister for a third time, also proposed a separate league for teams with fewer spectators and went on to say that Italian clubs should take the English stadiums as a model and to build commercial centres around them.
Looking to the future he believes that people would be "in favour" of these proposals and that "licenses could be given" for them.
This article was featured on SereA.tv. Click here to go directly to the site.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Youth Italian Soccer Language Program
After the success achieved the last two years, Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School in collaboration with Georgia Coast FA and Savannah International Soccer Academy (SISA), will once again be giving the opportunity to all youth soccer players to participate in the Italian Soccer-Language Program held on Jekyll Island, GA this coming June.
The Italian Soccer-Language Program is organized annually by Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School and SISA. The Scuola Calcio Program is well-known mostly for not just promoting Italian soccer but also Italian language so youth soccer players can get the full immersion experience of the Italian cultural side. This is a two week program during the summer months where many youth players from all over North America will be participating.
The Scuola Calcio, SISA and Georgia Coast FA are inviting all North America players aged between 10 and 16 to this event which consists mainly of a daily Italian soccer training and Italian language lessons on the beautiful Jekyll Island, GA.
Players will have the opportunity to train under the guidance of professional Italian coaches and be assessed individually during training sessions and small sided games. Every participant will be receiving a certificate of attendance, a training kit to use during training sessions and all material needed to study and learn the Italian language.
Apart from learning the Italian Soccer Methodology and the Italian Language, players will engage in other social activities organized through out the two weeks such as bike rides, long walks on the island, visit the NASA Space Center, beach soccer, swimming, etc. Players will also be enrolled in the 3vs3 National Qualifier Tournament. All players who are successful in reaching the finals will be invited to Disney over the weekend of July 26th & 27th to take part in the National Championships.
The dates for this exclusive and fantastic event will take place between June 22nd and July 7th, 2008.
Log on to www.soccerkix.com or www.Georgiacoastfa.com to read the complete itinerary for this unique program.
Total cost for two weeks: $1895 - Payment can be made over 4 easy payments
Space is limited. Coaches or parents can also join the group as chaperones. For more information you may email info@soccerkix.com
The Italian Soccer-Language Program is organized annually by Scuola Calcio, Italian Premier Soccer School and SISA. The Scuola Calcio Program is well-known mostly for not just promoting Italian soccer but also Italian language so youth soccer players can get the full immersion experience of the Italian cultural side. This is a two week program during the summer months where many youth players from all over North America will be participating.
The Scuola Calcio, SISA and Georgia Coast FA are inviting all North America players aged between 10 and 16 to this event which consists mainly of a daily Italian soccer training and Italian language lessons on the beautiful Jekyll Island, GA.
Players will have the opportunity to train under the guidance of professional Italian coaches and be assessed individually during training sessions and small sided games. Every participant will be receiving a certificate of attendance, a training kit to use during training sessions and all material needed to study and learn the Italian language.
Apart from learning the Italian Soccer Methodology and the Italian Language, players will engage in other social activities organized through out the two weeks such as bike rides, long walks on the island, visit the NASA Space Center, beach soccer, swimming, etc. Players will also be enrolled in the 3vs3 National Qualifier Tournament. All players who are successful in reaching the finals will be invited to Disney over the weekend of July 26th & 27th to take part in the National Championships.
The dates for this exclusive and fantastic event will take place between June 22nd and July 7th, 2008.
Log on to www.soccerkix.com or www.Georgiacoastfa.com to read the complete itinerary for this unique program.
Total cost for two weeks: $1895 - Payment can be made over 4 easy payments
Space is limited. Coaches or parents can also join the group as chaperones. For more information you may email info@soccerkix.com
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